ENPM 643/ENSE 623 Projects, Fall Semester, 2011

[ Project 1 ]: Model-Based Design and Testing of a Waterlock Controller
[ Project 2 ]: Algorithms for Ration-Based Scheduling in the Aviation Industry
[ Project 3 ]: Dynamic Traffic Light at a Four Way Intersection
[ Project 4 ]: Inference Mechanisms for Validation of Component Compatibility
[ Project 5 ]: Automated Satellite Network Redundancy
[ Project 6 ]: Software Defined Radio Waveform Development and LifeCycle Management
[ Project 7 ]: Workflow Modeling of Manufacturing Processes
[ Project 8 ]: Validation/Verification of Space/Ground Network support for Expendable Launch Vehicles/Satellite Missions
[ Project 9 ]: Automation of Aircraft Taxing
[ Project 10 ]: Asset Managing and Tracking System
[ Project 11 ]: Evaluation of the Safety Critical System at the Greenbelt Metro Station
[ Project 12 ]: Verification and Trade-off Analysis with Modelica
[ Project 13 ]: Strategy and Evaluation Information System
[ Project 14 ]: Safe Railroad Crossing with Two Parallel Railroad Tracks
[ Project 15 ]: Markov Chains, Bayesian Analyses, Biological Systems
[ Project 16 ]: Modeling Railway Crossing Systems with Higraphs
[ Project 17 ]: Evaluation of Risks Associated with Cyber Supply Chain
[ Project 18 ]: Military Targeting Systems
[ Project 19 ]: Guard Language Implementation for Statecharts


PROJECT 1

Title: Model-Based Design and Testing of a Waterlock Controller
Author: Leonard Petnga

Abstract: In this project, we continue the work started last spring on model-based design of an automated waterlock system. We will expand our exploration of the system by modeling and analyzing a prototype of the controller of this complex safety critical system. The waterlock controller implements the lock crossing algorithm and is the key component of the computer systems operating the lock. This real-time system will be modeled as networks of timed automata based on temporal logic which is well supported by UPPAAL toolkit. We will on its simulation, validation and verification capabilities to model and test the proper execution of non-deterministic processes performed by the controller while operating the waterlock system. Those operations and activities will be traced back to the system requirements previously identified and validated.

We will also study the impact of delays on the overall performance of the system. Crossing time, system faults and safety risks will be revisited and analyzed in view of a better understanding of the system as well as its optimization. However, the primary purpose of the study we will focus our attention on inbound crossing.


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 8.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for November 29.


PROJECT 2

Title: Algorithms for Ration-Based Scheduling in the Aviation Industry
Author: Rong Carina Wang

Abstract: This project will involve development of an algorithm that decreases delays and increases equity at the same time in the Ground Delay Program and find how the algorithms we use (RBD, DBRBD, GS, GD and maybe my new algorithm) benefit the whole aviation industry.


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 8.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for November 29.


PROJECT 3

Title: Dynamic Traffic Light at a Four Way Intersection
Authors: Mamadou Faye, Meron Alemayehu, and Vinit Parmanand

Abstract: This project is about system validation and verification on design and implementation of a dynamic traffic light at a four way intersection. The traffic pattern will depend on the number of cars moving toward the intersection. Our aim is to minimize time spent in traffic and avoid traffic congestion.


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 8.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for November 29.


PROJECT 4

Title: Inference Mechanisms for Validation of Component Compatibility
Authors: Nefretiti Nassar

Abstract: This project will involve developing an ontology infrastructure and inference mechanisms to support validation of component compatibility. The inference algorithms will be developed in Python and the display architecture will be developed in Java. The purpose of this project is to apply the idea of ontology for system representation in the context of system design.


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 8.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for November 29.


PROJECT 5

Title: Automated Satellite Network Redundancy
Authors: Shruti Devgon

Abstract: Satellite Network Hub redundancy refers to the use of complete replication of Network hub components at a secondary backup site to provide a recovery mechanism in the event of a failure at the primary hub site. The system engineering approach would be to analyze the requirements, develop use case and scenarios for testing, verification and validation of the automated redundancy and switch over feature. This analysis will also incorporate the impact on certain defined parameters. In the network industry the Automated Hub Redundancy mechanism enhances the uptime and efficiency of the network by reducing prolonged outages due to unforeseen circumstances or in the case of extensive and long maintenance schedules at the primary site


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 8.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for November 29.


PROJECT 6

Title: Software Defined Radio (SDR) Waveform Development and LifeCycle Management
Authors: Mike Sotak and Gary Toussaint

Abstract: As a continuation of the SDR venture from ENSE622/ENPM642, this project will delve into several of the topics proposed in the future work portion of the paper, as well as look into alternative lifecycle development strategies and verification/validation methods. With regards to new research, this project shall investigate the optimization of SDR applications within the multitude of environments already proposed, including range, relaying capabilities, location, and frequency. Research into the idea of Cognitive radio (CR) will also be conducted in order to take advantage of real-time data fusion concepts, thus providing for more efficient and autonomous radios.

From the standpoint of lifecycle development, this project will also investigate the usage of a SCRUM model, in order to introduce SDR requirements and concepts on a “per-release” and “per customer” basis. With this model, as new concepts are considered, they may be confirmed by an Engineering Review Board and placed accordingly into a release schedule. At the end of each release, these requirements are then tested and reviewed by identified relevant stakeholders. Thus, this project will also identify testing methods (analysis, test, etc.), sample procedures, and target stakeholders for the requirements proposed last semester.


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 8.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for November 29.


PROJECT 7

Title: Workflow Modeling of Manufacturing Processes
Author: Heather Nicholas

Abstract: A process focused manufacturing facility has the challenge of coordinating a high variety of products with short (low volume) production runs. A highly variable product mix will significantly impact manpower and equipment resources. This project will use workflow modeling and Petri Nets to analyze a manufacturing process to determine the impact of product mix on resources and production schedule attainment. The ability to model a process focused manufacturing system will enable management to maximize resources and increase manufacturing flexibility.


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 8.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for December X.


PROJECT 8

Title: Verification of Space and Ground Network support of Expendable Launch Vehicles and Satellite missions
Authors: Taylor Casey and Devin Bitner

Abstract: This project will investigate procedures for the validation and verification of space and ground network support of expendable launch vehicles and satellite missions. The project scope will cover all areas of requirement generation, documentation, testing & simulations, and operational support.

Being part of the Network Integration Management Office, we have a vested interest in ensuring that all mission requirements are tested. Unfortunetly, several recent missions have had problems on orbit that could have been diagnosed pre-launch.


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 8.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for November 29.


PROJECT 9

Title: Automation of Aircraft Taxing
Author: Milind Mehta

Abstract: The purpose of this project is to develop and verify a system which will allow an aircraft with appropriate systems, to taxi from the starting point to the runway or from the runway exit to the gate, automatically. This project is a system of systems since it will involve many different systems including the ones from GPS to systems present in the aircraft and other aircrafts. The main objective is to get the automation working and also to look for the safety aspect of the system since it involves heavy machineries.

The main study will focus on the system and how the system can be verified and validated for safety and accuracy. I will also concentrate on the aspect of system failure, and system integration of present system and the future system.


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 8.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for November 29.


PROJECT 10

Title: Asset Managing and Tracking System
Author: Jessica Howard

Abstract: This project will outline a software solution for managing and tracking procurement assets. The software will assist procurement managers in keeping track of orders, delivery dates, funding, and will provide useful information on what parts need to be ordered, how much they will cost and expected delivery dates for parts orders. The software will be a custom design and implementation.


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 8.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for December 6.


PROJECT 11

Title: Evaluation of the Safety Critical System at the Greenbelt Metro Station
Authors: Steven Tran and Garrett Joseph

Abstract: Our project will evaluate the safety critical systems of the Greenbelt Metro Station to determine their systems effectiveness. Opened to the public in 1993, Greenbelt metro is a Washington Metro station located in Prince George's County, Maryland on the greenline. The Greenbelt Metro Station has one island platform and uses an interlocking system to prevent conflicting movements through an arrangement of tracks. Our project will validate if the metro station's interlock system meets the requirements for which it was originally designed and are presently use. In addition, the project will verify that the system can perform the task required of it in the present environment.

The criteria for what makes a system safety-critical depend upon the regulatory environment and/or the safety standards applied to a project or product. The general consensus is that a system is safety-critical if it may lead to harm being caused (or not being prevented) to users, bystanders, other stakeholders, or the environment, although the range of causes and harm considered can vary.

Reference:


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 1.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for December 6.


PROJECT 12

Title: Verification and TradeOff Analysis with Modelica
Author: Dimitris Spyropoulos

Abstract: The first part of this project will be dedicated to explore the capabilities of Modelica for requirements verification. For this purpose, an example will be developed (probably for the Automated Cruise Control of a car) in ModelicaML (extension profile of UML). The results will be used to identify the pros and cons of using modelicaML for requirements traceability and verification instead of SysML.

The second part will involve research on finding ways to integrate Modelica with Consol-Optcad, which is a trade off analysis tool for multi-objective optimization


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 1.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for December 6.


PROJECT 13

Title: Strategy and Evaluation Information System
Author: Shanna Pitter

Abstract: A database for a strategic planning information system will be represented by an ontology methodology. The scope of this information system includes capturing the many-to-many mappings of organizational components (programs, projects, and activities) and their linkage to strategic objectives, financial resources related to multiple inputs and outcomes, and measuring progress against strategy via performance metrics. Protege 4.1 and its Web Ontology Language (OWL) editor will be used to create the ontology of the sysem's data and products and the verification of the relationships elucidated.


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 1.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for December 6.


PROJECT 14

Title: Safe Railroad Crossing with Two Parallel Railroad Tracks
Author: Chris Huber

Abstract: The purpose of this project is to create a safe railroad crossing for an intersection of two parallel railroad tracks,and a perpendicular road. The system will be comprised of sensors that will detect the presence of a train and will use those inputs to determine when a gate will drop to prevent a motorist from crossing the railroad tracks. The gate should be closed for some time before the train comes and remain closed in the event of another train coming from the opposite direction on the second set of railroad tracks.


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 1.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for December 6.


PROJECT 15

Title: Markov Chains, Bayesian Analyses, Biological Systems
Author: Matt Mosteller

Abstract: Due to the inherent variation of all biological systems and processes, engineering device systems designed for use in biological and biomedical applications often face difficulties in the verification and validation stages of development. Because of the low level of repeatability attainable when dealing with these biological stimuli, the inputs of a system may not always result in the same outputs. Thus, in order to determine if a device design meets the needs and requirements of the application, different methods of validation and verification must be utilized.

Markov chains and Bayesian analyses techniques are one way that researchers in biology and medicine perform such validation and verification tests, however, the majority of these efforts are directed at drug effectiveness or at the verification of a particular biological process, both of which are largely stochastic processes. In this project, we aim to utilize these same Markov chain and Bayesian techniques for the validation and verification of engineering systems designed for use with biological systems. By defining a specific system's anticipated performance and comparing it with actual performance in a probabilistic manner, we can define a unique method of obtaining a level of confidence in the device's ability to meet performance requirements.

Resources:

  1. M., Chilukuri, et. al., Temporal uncertainty reasoning networks for evidence fusion with applications to object detection and tracking. Information Fusion, 8 (2007) pp. 281-294.
  2. Statistical Methods in Medical Research, 4th edition, 2008, Blackwell Publishing, Massachusetts.
  3. Beck J. and Pauker S., The Markov process in medical prognosis, Medical Decision Making, vol. 3 no. 4 (1983), pp. 419-458


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 1.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for December 6.


PROJECT 16

Title: Modeling Railway Crossing Systems with Higraphs
Author: Eddie Tseng

Abstract: Higraphs are a graph-based formalism for modeling system entities and the relationship among system entities and components. They mprove upon some of the weakness of UML and SysML. This project will explore the extent to which higraphs can be used for the structure and behavior of railway crossings, and to capture concerns for validation and verification of correct behavior. We will focus on a single railroad with a gate that will close to block the traffic when the train is crossing the roadway. Other system components and the system spacial design criteria will also be discussed in the project.


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 1.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for December 6.


PROJECT 17

Title: Evaluation of risks associated with Cyber Supply Chain
Author: Nakul Sathyanarayana

Abstract: This project will evaluate the safety critical components of the cyber supply chain to determine their systems effectiveness. The supply chain involves a complex flow of information, financial transaction and the physical flow of goods. The cyber supply chain is the mass of IT systems (hardware, software, and public and classified networks) that together enable the uninterrupted service of government and industrial base actors, such as, Department of Defense (DOD), the Department of Homeland Security and their major suppliers. The key actors in cyber-supply chain ecosystem are: Policy Makers, Ecosystem acquisition specialist, System Integrators, Software Developers, Hardware/Component Developers, Network Providers and End Users.

This project will identify the current state of art technology involved in mitigating the cyber supply chain risks and validate if the model used meets the requirements for which it was originally designed and are presently use. In addition, the project will verify that the system can perform the task required of it in the present environment.


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 1.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for December 6.


PROJECT 18

Title: Military Targeting Systems
Author: Jason Fonner

Abstract: This project will look at a general model for military targeting systems to include the sequencing of target acquisition and engagement. Some questions that may be answered include:


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 1.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for December 6.


PROJECT 19

Title: Guard Language Implementation for Statecharts
Author: John McGahagan

Abstract: Objects and systems can be simulated via statecharts. However, in this simulation, there needs to be an implementation for guard conditions to ensure proper system function and verification and validation. I will implement a guard condition parser for systems simulated with software statecharts.


Midterm Presentation: Scheduled for November 1.
Class Presentation: Scheduled for November 29.


Developed in September 2011 by Mark Austin
Copyright © 2011, Institute for Systems Research, University of Maryland